The Firmness Of Memory Foam

by Liza Dcruz SEO Analysis Expert

In most cases, the best way you have of understanding how firm memory foam will feel is by looking at the manufacturer's rating. The main issue you'll face is with the rating. This is because, mattress manufacturers do not need to follow a certain guide or test of firmness so that all mattresses have equal properties. This is a problem when trying to understand the differences of firmness in memory foam products. As people have different preferences of comfort, it is important that you don't rely solely on the manufacturer's rating. Instead check out the ILD to understand how soft or hard the mattress will feel.

What is ILD Rating and why is it important?

ILD stands for Indentation Load Deflection. It's simply a term used to measure how hard or soft a foam is. To get an accurate picture of firmness and quality, ILD is combined with density of a foam mattress. Manufacturers calculate the ILD by measuring the amount of pressure in pounds that is needed to indent 25 percent into a memory foam layer of 4 inches. This is tested by using equal amounts of pressure on 50 square inches to press into the memory foam by 25 percent.

8 pounds of pressure is required to indent the softest memory foam by 25 percent, while 20 pounds of pressure is required to indent into extremely firm memory foam. For the majority of memory foam mattresses, the ILD rating is displayed between 10 – 12.

However, there can be a slight variation in the ILD rating based on where the foam was stored before testing or how it has been conditioned. Two of the factors that contribute to this slight variation are humidity and moisture.

Memory foams have a lot of advantages. This is why you must purchase the best product from the market considering the ILD rating.